RECAP: BRAD PAISLEY BRINGS 'TRUCK STILL WORKS TOUR' TO ABBOTSFORD

Brad Paisley returned to the Abbotsford Centre on November 4th for the Canadian leg of his Truck Still Works Tour, marking his first performance in the city since 2020. It was a long-awaited return for local fans, and one that reaffirmed why Paisley remains one of country music’s most beloved and enduring performers. This was his 11th time performing in British Columbia, a province he’s built a strong connection with over the span of his career.

Photos by Tage Stenner / Backspin HQ

From the moment he stepped on stage, the crowd was fully invested. Fans were up on their feet, singing along to every lyric, phones lighting up the arena as Paisley’s signature Telecaster rang out through the speakers. Between songs, he crouched down toward fans in the pit, reaching out to shake hands and share quick smiles. It was pure charm, the kind of old-school crowd connection that can’t be rehearsed.

Born Brad Douglas Paisley on October 28, 1972, in Glen Dale, West Virginia, Paisley grew up immersed in music from an early age. His grandfather gave him his first guitar at age eight, and by fourteen he had already become the youngest regular cast member of the Jamboree USA radio show in Wheeling. His path led him from West Liberty State College to Belmont University in Nashville, where his songwriting career took off. His first professional breakthrough came when he penned Another You for David Kersh in 1997, and just two years later, he released his debut album Who Needs Pictures.

Since then, Paisley has carved out a legendary run in country music - 24 No. 1 hits, 21 of which he co-wrote, multiple Grammy and CMA Awards, and membership in the Grand Ole Opry since 2001. His discography spans humour, storytelling, and emotional depth, often mixing traditional instrumentation with sharp modern production.

The Truck Still Works World Tour, which began in Idaho Falls on May 21, 2025, represents both a celebration of longevity and a continuation of the spark that has defined Paisley’s career. The tour’s U.S. leg hit major venues across the summer, including Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. Its extension into Canada includes stops in Kelowna, Edmonton, Lethbridge, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, London, Hamilton, and Ottawa.

Paisley delivered a mix of crowd favourites like Mud on the Tires, Ticks, and Whiskey Lullaby, alongside newer songs from the Truck Still Works album. His guitar solos reminded the audience that he’s not only one of country’s best storytellers but also one of its most skilled instrumentalists. His tone was rich and expressive, alternating between smooth country licks and fiery electric runs that drew loud cheers after nearly every solo.

Paisley’s artistry still runs strong, his performances still sharp, his songs still connecting across generations. His recent induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame this fall added another layer of meaning to this run, acknowledging not just his longevity but his craftsmanship.

The Truck Still Works Tour continues through Western Canada before heading east to Ontario, closing out 2025 with what feels like a victory lap for one of country’s most consistent and authentic voices. For fans, this night it was a reminder of why Brad Paisley remains such a defining presence in modern country music. He plays with precision, sings with heart, and carries himself with the same style that first won fans over decades ago. The songs still resonate, the stories still matter, and for one night, the message was clear: the truck still works, and so does Brad Paisley.

Upcoming Tour Dates

November 5 – Kelowna, BC @ Prospera Place

November 7 – Edmonton, AB @ Rogers Place

November 8 – Lethbridge, AB @ VistLethbridge.com Arena

November 14 – Winnipeg, MB @ Canada Life Center

November 15 – Saskatoon, SK @ SaskTel Centre

December 4 – Las Vegas, NV @ Encore Theater at The Wynn

December 5 – Las Vegas, NV @ Encore Theater at The Wynn

December 11 – London, ON @ Canada Life Place

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